Media Release: SANParks Announces Successful KNP Restaurant Bidder

South African National Park (SANParks) today awarded a multi-million rand contract for the provision of restaurant services at the world-famous Kruger National Park (KNP), to the Compass Group.

The announcement was made at the organisationâs headquarters in Pretoria following weeks of adjudication which began with a tender process in April 2006. This follows after Compass Group was appointed interim caretaker operators during the period November 2005 to date, replacing Natureâs Group as a temporary restaurant operator in the KNP after the liquidation of Vilayet (Pty) Ltd its holding company in November 2005.

A SANParks team and a panel of experts from the tourism and related industries conducted the adjudication process and much focus was placed on the technical ability of the bidders as well as their empowerment and financial capabilities in accordance with the selection criteria.

Five (5) companies initially took part in the bidding process and after careful evaluation the Compass Group was short-listed for further negotiations and they were finally awarded the tender.

Congratulating the Compass Group, SANParks Chief Executive Dr David Mabunda said the organisation was satisfied that the group complied with the requirements of the SANParks Supply Chain Management Policy as well as the BEE Tourism Scorecard; and that the bid committee did not compromise any procedures in the sourcing process.

Dr Mabunda added that SANParks was also satisfied with the Compass Groupâs performance during its time as the interim caretaker operators. âWe were really very impressed with Compassâ professionalism and conduct throughout this period.

âWe officially welcome you as our partners for the next 10 years and we are fully committed to making this partnership work,â said Dr Mabunda.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Compass South Africa and Compass SADC Mr Andre Du Chenne said apart from this being the biggest food service contract ever awarded in terms of volume; the Kruger National Park was a national treasure and it was a privilege for the group to do business with SANParks, world renowned conservation giant.

âThe Kruger National Park is a jewel in the crown of not only the country, but the planet. It is a great privilege that SANParks has chosen us to help showcase it to all visitors to our country,â said Mr Du Chenne.

Dr Mabunda further added that since the Kruger National Park is the largest of the 22 national parks and the most popular holiday destination for nature lovers, this appointment will also streamline SANParks broader preparation plans for the countryâs 2010 hosting of the Soccer World Cup.

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